FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky State Police (KSP) had a successful holiday weekend sale this year. The department announced that it sold out of its Trooper Teddy Bears Saturday afternoon.
Proceeds from the bears go toward the Trooper Teddy Project, which helps provide teddy bears for children who experience traumatic situations like car crashes or domestic abuse.
The project is intended to establish trust between KSP troopers and children, according to KSP Sergeant Billy Gregory.
“Often times, we are meeting these children on their worst day,” Gregory said. “Whether they are scared or nervous from the circumstance they are dealing with, the bear seems to immediately resonate with them. That connection builds trust and opens the door to communication between the child and the trooper.”
Kentucky State Police said people can still donate to the Trooper Teddy Project, even though they don't have any more bears. Donations can be made online.
KSP hosts a bear sale on Black Friday and Valentine's Day each year to help raise money for the project. The bears are normally $20, plus shipping.
Gregory said the program relies solely on donations and the sale of the bears.
According to KSP, the Trooper Teddy Bear Project started in 1989 with the help of former Kentucky First Lady Martha Wilkinson.
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